27 July 2015

menorca

Travel Diaries - July 2015MenorcaWelcome to the Menorca series, a look at all that's great about the smallest Balearic Island. For some unknown reason the Balearic Islands have missed me out. Must have been gallivanting elsewhere. Now I've finally made it to one of them. And was I glad we chose here. It doesn't have the hedonistic attitude of its cousins but what it may lack in nightlife it certainly makes up for it in many other ways. So this week Sketches takes you on a tour of the little island in the sun; Menorca, with tips and hints and photo's to share. Today three places worth a visit.

Menorca - crystal clear waters and tiny beaches

For StartersI'll save the beaches and Ciutadella for the coming days, so let's look at some of its other delights. Monte Toro dominates its centre and makes for a great starting point to get your bearings and view what this island has to offer from its 358m vantage point. You'll need to hire a car or join an island tour to reach it. The journey up the winding road is well worth it and the views aren't bad either. There's also a convent and restaurant so plenty to keep you occupied for an hour or two.

Monte Toro

On top of the mountain is a church / convent

A Town called FornellsFinding a great town that has character is always a travelling pleasure and one such place is Fornells. All white washed villas and apartments but also a great place for water sports. Oh, don't be put off by the name (it does sound like a department store!) Restaurants line the port area and are a great way to get out of the scorching sun. It also had a real festival feel about the place and seemed more laid back than other places. Time standing still.

Festival time in Fornells?

The white villas of Fornells

Mao (Mahon)We were based on the opposite side of the island so our time in the islands capital was short and to be honest I preferred where we were but more of that in the coming days. Mao is still worth a wander, it has some great little streets to explore and shops to browse in. So don't leave it out on your travels, perhaps go there as your final stop before catching the plane home? That's what we did.

The Port area in Mao

Finding the tiny streets of Mao is part of its pleasure

There's so much moreAlthough a small island there is plenty to see. We were there nine days and didn't see half of what we wanted. Isn't that the way with any trip? So this is just my personal favourites that I think you should check out. Tomorrow I'll feature three beaches I'd recommend visiting. Have you been to Menorca? Where would you recommend? Would love to know your thoughts and tips.